FIREWORKS DISPLAYS will illuminate the skies this week during Fourth of July celebrations. As we enjoy these holiday festivities, it's important for us to remember that this can be a very traumatic time for our pets.

Loud noises can frighten animals, causing them to panic and even run away from home. In fact, animal shelters across the country report an increased number of lost animal companions after fireworks displays.

"Every year, dogs and cats bolt from their yards or homes in fear during the holiday festivities," says Keri Fennell, MHS director of customer services. "In an attempt to find refuge, some pets become lost or wind up at the local animal shelter." Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for you and your pet. Just follow these simple guidelines.

The dos

 Keep your pets indoors during fireworks displays. A quiet, sheltered area is best. Close windows and curtains and turn on the TV or radio to help drown out some of the noise. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure to remove any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful if chewed. You'll find that some dogs will prefer to lay in the bathroom as the small space will buffer the sound better.

 Make sure your pets are wearing current identification so that if they do become lost, they can be returned to you promptly. The best ID combination consists of a microchip, plus a pet license tag and a personalized tag hanging from the collar. Every lost pet that is brought to the Marin Humane Society is checked for any type of identification and scanned for a microchip.

The don'ts

 Take your dog to a fireworks display. It's usually hot, there are always large crowds, and the dogs really don't enjoy it.

 Leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a tether. Pets who normally wouldn't try to leave the yard may panic and try to escape. Dogs may become entangled in their tethers or hang themselves if they try to leap over a fence. To avoid injury, keep your pets indoors.

There are other ways to help ensure your pets have an enjoyable holiday. If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by the sounds of fireworks, consult with your veterinarian in advance. Your vet may recommend a fast-acting, anti-anxiety medication. The key is to give the medications before the noise starts — they are less effective if you wait until the dog is already stressed.

If, despite your best efforts, your animal companion does become lost, don't panic. Check inside garages, yards, storage sheds, basements, closets, under cars and in the shrubbery at your home and throughout the neighborhood. The Marin Humane Society can assist you in finding a lost pet. Search the lost animal database on our website, and come to the shelter to check the kennels and fill out a lost pet report. You also can download lost animal flyers from the MHS website at www.marinhumanesociety.org and check our 24-hour lost animal hotline at 883-3621.